Commissioners told bronze plaques are ordered; staff to confirm installation process with owners

Staff told the commission that bronze landmark plaques for recently designated properties have been ordered from a local vendor, that the plaques measure roughly 12 inches by 9 inches and one-quarter inch thick, and that production was estimated to take about a month.

"They take about a month to be made," said the staff presenter (Seth). He said the commission chose a slightly smaller plaque size and that the plaques will be screw-mounted rather than the heavier stud type so homeowners can more easily accept and affix them.

Commissioners asked whether property owners or the city would be responsible for installation. Seth said he will investigate the historic practice and return with an answer; commissioners noted that Public Works or volunteers had affixed plaques in past years and that the department or volunteers may again assist. One commissioner noted it had been many years since a plaque was last affixed.

Staff reported owners had been contacted and that owners were concerned the recognition might limit future uses of their building; staff said they reassured owners that accepting the plaque does not impose use limitations and that the owners agreed to accept the award. Owners asked for time to confirm preferred timing and location for presentation (in a commission meeting or a small sidewalk event).

For one site (the "cowboy club"), staff recommended obtaining a wooden frame to mount the plaque securely because the protective film over the plaque could be damaged and is removable for replacement if needed. The commission directed staff to pursue a frame option and to report back on installation logistics.

No formal vote was taken; staff will follow up with property owners and report installation options and placement recommendations at a future meeting.